Survivors of domestic violence are launching a new project in Darlington to help other women in need.

The Freedom Programme is aimed at helping women identify the signs of a potential abuser so they can make and keep healthy relationships.

The 12-week programme is free and open to anyone who is interested in finding out about domestic violence, whether they are directly involved or know someone who is suffering.

The course is being run by the Darlington Domestic Violence Forum and members of its Survivor Network who are themselves victims of domestic violence.

Claire Seymour, co-ordinator of the Darlington Domestic Violence Forum said: "This course encourages women to take control of their lives and show they are not to blame for any kind of abuse.

"It enables us to identify what constitutes abuse and what to do about it.

"It will reveal what beliefs abusive men hold and if women hold the same beliefs which may have led them to stay in abusive relationships.

"It is open to victims but also to women who want to support a friend, relative or work colleague in a dangerous situation."

The Freedom Programme was devised by a former probation officer in Liverpool who had worked with violent men.

But Ms Seymour stressed the hour-long sessions were not about turning women against men.

She said: "We are not trying to make women anti-men but we want to show women they can have a healthy relationship and to recognise if they are suffering abuse - it does not have to be physical to be wrong."

The course will also concentrate on the effects of domestic violence on children and will aim to give women the self-esteem and confidence they need to improve their quality of life.

The Freedom Programme also contains a one-day course for professionals, both men and women, who want to find out more about domestic violence and how they can help victims.

The programme, which is funded by Darlington Borough Council's Life Long Learning, will be held at a venue in the centre of town and a free creche will be available.

Anyone wanting to take part should call (01325) 346809 or 07810542379 or email claire@ddvf.org for information.

Darlington Domestic Violence Forum can be contacted Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm or via the web on www.dvf.org